*This story takes place in late 1950’s. Creative license was used in the Emporium Department Store scenes.

I’m Leopold the Lion and I’ve been the reigning king of the Toyland jungle for the past six months, waiting for the day some little boy or little girl takes me home and welcomes me into his or her family.

I’ll miss my kingdom here when that day comes, but like everyone else, I need to feel the love of a child. Nothing else matters. It’s what we’re created for. Without the love of a child, our existence is meaningless.

Each time a child visits our floor and peruses the shelves, we all wait with baited breath to see which one of us he or she will choose. We’re all anxious to be chosen. Once the choi...